A boating sport that was popularized right here in Minnesota more than 115 years ago is getting a second look from dozens of local and international sailors. This summer, the Minnetonka Yacht Club will host the 2014 Jaguar Land Rover of Minneapolis A-Scow national championship, a regatta that draws enthusiasts from around the world.
Twenty-five top A-Scow skippers will compete in the race June 19-22. They’ll be racing their 38-foot yachts, a boat with a large sail that was invented by John O. Johnson at Johnson Boat Works on White Bear Lake in 1895.
In the late 1800s, these yachts were made of wood. Newer construction materials are helping boost the sport’s popularity today.
“The boats are now made of fiberglass, which makes them faster in the water and easier to maintain,” says Tim Browne, sponsorship and publicity director for the race. “Because of that, the sport is attracting lots of younger sailors.”
Browne expects a cheering section of more than 2000 people and more than 250 boats—watching the race from the water is the best way to experience the race.
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For more detailed information about start times and locations, visit ascow.org.
